Experienced Bakers...how Do You Get Your Equipment Back??
Decorating By CarolLee Updated 19 Jan 2012 , 2:09am by leah_s
Hey guys - When you've made and delivered a wedding cake with the sps systems or masonite boards and other stacking tools - and if the venue is far, far away - how do you get it all back? Charge a deposit? Stay there for the event?? Do the cutting and serving?
In my limited experience people forget all about you after the party is done. These supplies are way too expensive to let it go....What do ya'll DO?!?!?!
I use Stress Free Supports, which is a system of steel rings and removable plastic legs. When the cake is delivered, I give the client a prepaid Priority Mail box and instructions to toss the supplies in the box, seal it up and drop it at the post office.
If I use a large masonite board, I build the cost into the cake price, so I don't need it returned.
The deposit is always replacement cost of the items plus expedited shipping charge, just in case I need replacements immediately. When I receive the box of supplies in the mail, I send a refund check.
I have them leave me a hefty check for the amount to replace my equipment. If the items are not returned by such and such a date, the check is cashed. Period.
I just don't offer anything I would need back. Honestly, after I've delivered the cake, I don't want anything to have to keep track of. Dno't have the time, don't want the headache. If I do a masonite board, they can throw it. If I use SPS (once in a blue moon), they can toss it. If they need a cake stand, they can rent one from a party supply place.
I have them leave me a hefty check for the amount to replace my equipment. If the items are not returned by such and such a date, the check is cashed. Period.
That can be risky. If they know they're not going to return your stuff, they could stop payment on the check. Of course, that's a whole new pile of headaches, but why take the chance?
I always inform my client that I will be cashing their deposit check. So far, no complaints. 
Hi
I charge my customers for the price of the equipment and shipping (if applicable) as well, when I get the equipment back, they get deposit back minus rental fee (if they are renting cupcake stands, cake base etc).
I have them leave me a hefty check for the amount to replace my equipment. If the items are not returned by such and such a date, the check is cashed. Period.
That can be risky. If they know they're not going to return your stuff, they could stop payment on the check. Of course, that's a whole new pile of headaches, but why take the chance?
I always inform my client that I will be cashing their deposit check. So far, no complaints.
I've thought about that but I've had no problems. I also know where they live... 
Full cost replacement (equipment deposit). You will get it back.
Jennifer
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